Large-Scale Drug Distribution Operation Busted in Umatilla Home

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — In a major breakthrough, Lake County detectives successfully apprehended three suspects on Wednesday following an extensive six-month investigation into multiple complaints about drug activity. The investigation, initiated by Crimeline tips and concerned citizens, centered around 46-year-old Robert Donaldson, who was allegedly distributing substantial quantities of drugs from a residence on Pine Street in Umatilla.

Collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security and officers from the Mount Dora and Eustis police departments, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and Special Investigations Bureau executed a search warrant at the targeted residence in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The search operation yielded significant quantities of cocaine, as well as crack cocaine manufactured from the former, weighing approximately one and a half pounds. Detectives also discovered stamped blue pills that tested positive for fentanyl, along with approximately seven pounds of marijuana. The total street value of the seized drugs is estimated to be well over $50,000.

In addition to the narcotics, the search uncovered approximately $10,000 in cash and a handgun reported as stolen in Lake County.

Donaldson, with a lengthy criminal history and already on probation, was arrested on numerous charges. These include trafficking in more than 400 grams of cocaine, trafficking in more than four grams of fentanyl, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana with intent to sell, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, manufacturing cocaine into a cocaine base, and owning, leasing, renting, or possessing a residence for the purpose of trafficking or manufacturing a controlled substance. With no bond set on the new charges, Donaldson also faces a charge of violating probation and is currently held in the Lake County jail.

Joana Silva, 22, identified as Donaldson’s fiancé, was arrested on the same drug charges. Additionally, she faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence for attempting to flush crack cocaine down the toilet during the execution of the search warrant. Silva is also held in the Lake County jail without bond.

The third suspect, identified as 44-year-old Lashonda Gatson, was arrested and charged with trafficking in more than four grams of fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Gatson is currently held in the Lake County jail on a total bond of $60,000.

Crackdown on Drug Distribution

Continuing Efforts Against Drug Trafficking

This successful operation reflects the commitment of Lake County law enforcement agencies to crack down on drug distribution and protect the community from the harmful effects of narcotics. The collaboration between the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security, and local police departments has proven to be instrumental in dismantling this drug trafficking network.

Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell praised the efforts of his team and emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting suspicious activities. He stated, “This arrest would not have been possible without the invaluable support of concerned citizens who took the initiative to report their concerns. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and continue providing us with information that helps us keep our streets safe.”

Download Our Free News and Weather Apps

Stay updated with the latest news, weather, and live broadcasts from Channel 9 Eyewitness News. Download our free news, weather, and smart TV apps here. You can also stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live here.

©2023 Cox Media Group